What is menstrual irregularity related to?
Menstrual irregularity, also known as menstrual disorder, is characterized by abnormalities in the menstrual cycle, duration, or flow volume. It may be caused by non-disease factors, or it could be associated with certain medical conditions such as endometrial polyps or uterine fibroids. It is recommended to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:
I. Non-disease factors
Excessive dieting for weight loss, over-exercising, or long-term unhealthy habits can lead to decreased bodily functions and disrupt the body's physiological balance, resulting in menstrual abnormalities. Prolonged poor mental health or experiencing significant emotional stress or trauma may cause endocrine disorders that affect menstruation. Long-term use of various contraceptive pills can interfere with normal bodily functions. Identifying and removing these triggers may allow menstruation to gradually return to normal.
II. Disease-related factors
1. Endometrial polyps
Menstruation is related to the shedding of the endometrium. Polyps originating from the endometrium may cause thickening of the uterine lining, thereby interfering with its normal shedding. Surgical removal of the polyps may be considered when necessary.
2. Uterine fibroids
Fibroids located in the submucosal layer or within the uterine muscle wall may gradually enlarge, increasing the surface area of the endometrium and leading to menstrual abnormalities. This may affect the menstrual cycle or result in heavier menstrual bleeding. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as mifepristone tablets, norethisterone tablets, or ethinylestradiol-cyproterone acetate tablets, or surgical removal of the fibroid via myomectomy.
In addition, other conditions such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, and cervical cancer may also affect menstruation. If menstrual irregularities occur repeatedly or persistently, it is advisable to seek prompt evaluation and consultation at a gynecology clinic and follow medical recommendations for treatment.